Build-A-Bear Workshop Shows Support Amid Covid-19

During this unprecedented time, when everyone could use a hug, Build-A-Bear Workshop is making it known that its here with open (teddy bear) arms.

Already the Build-A-Bear Foundation has committed to donating at least 50,000 teddy bears in 2020 and has donated more than $250,000 to COVID-19 relief efforts. Customers are encouraged to further support these initiatives by donating to Build-A-Bear Foundation online or purchasing a Hearts ‘n’ Hugs Teddy. For every Hearts ‘n’ Hugs Teddy sold, Build-A-Bear Workshop will donate a teddy bear to a child impacted by Covid-19.

“Families around the world are adjusting to extended time at home and are looking for ways to stay active, connected and entertained,” says Sharon Price John, Build-A-Bear President & CEO, noting Build-A-Bear has been an outlet for creativity and imagination for more than 20 years ago. “We firmly believe in the importance of the comfort and security that furry friends can provide during stressful times, especially for children, and we are committed to our mission to ‘add a little more heart to life’ during these unprecedented times.”

With local workshops closed, the company’s online Bear Builder has offered enhanced features that simulate the in-store experience, allowing guests to pick their new furry friend, add scents  and sounds, dress them and even make a special wish on the heart.

Build-A-Bear Workshop has also launched a new online program, Workshop Wednesdays. Each Wednesday, Build-A-Bear will provide fresh, fun activities for the whole family, including recipes for easy-to-make snacks, DIY-craft ideas, coloring sheets, story time, games and more. Participants are encouraged to share their creations with #WorkshopWednesdays or upload directly to buildabear.com/celebearate for the chance to be featured on buildabear.com or the company’s social channels.

Families can also tune into Build-A-Bear Radio, available exclusively on iHeart Radio, or the Build-A-Bear YouTube channel. Build-A-Bear Radio features today’s top music hits and fun segments such as Story Time and ABearica’s Countdown, a weekend round-up featuring the most popular hits from the past week. Kids can also join Lindsay & Erynn for surprises, challenges and fashion in The Workshop, or follow their furry friends’ adventures in Bearville Alive on YouTube.